Offering

Ofrenda

Ruth Behar

A few months ago I would have said goodbye.
I tell you, I was ready to shut the door and not look back.
I tell you, I did not expect to touch you again.
I tell you,I had forgotten how to kiss you.
That was in the winter, and winter drives me to desperation.
Closed windows, locked doors, days like shadows.
Forgive me, I lost a country, I cannot be trusted.
Treat me as an offering, as Abraham did with Isaac.
Live me like incense.
Watch me go up in flames.
Turned to ash.